Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) Skinless Salmon Fillet (Center-cut preferred)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Avocado or Light Olive Oil (High smoke point)
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (Adjust for heat)
  • 3/4 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper

Instructions:

  1. Pat the salmon fillet dry thoroughly with kitchen paper. Cut the salmon into even, 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Consistency is key for even cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the Blackening Spice Blend (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Oregano, Thyme, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, and Black Pepper) until fully uniform.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 3 minutes.
  4. Place the cubed salmon in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with the high-smoke-point oil. Toss gently to lightly coat all surfaces.
  5. Sprinkle the blackening seasoning mixture over the oiled salmon. Toss gently until every cube is thoroughly and evenly coated in the spice rub.
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer. Do not overlap them; work in batches if necessary.
  7. Cook for 4 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
  8. Gently shake the basket or flip the bites using tongs. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for another 2–4 minutes.
  9. The bites are done when the exterior is crusty and the interior temperature registers 145°F (63°C). Remove immediately and serve hot.